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Manure must be managed in some way and perpetual stockpiling is not a legitimate option. Several options for managing manure exist and may include: hauling the manure off the farm where local farmers spread manure on hay fields or crops. A composting operation or nursery in your area may also be willing to accept this material. In some areas, manure may be hauled to a commercial landfill, but this option may prove be expensive. Land application is also an option, if you have adequate land base and the right equipment, you may spread manure on your own property. However, caution must be taken when land applying manure that is mixed with bedding material (feedstock). It is well known that the low nitrogen content in common wood based bedding material may reduce soil quality and pasture production potential. The carbon to nitrogen ratio of wood shavings is typically 500:1, as the carbon breaks down it depletes the nitrogen from the soil. Land application must also be performed in a manner that is environmentally acceptable and soil tests should be performed before any manure is applied.

Know the amount of manure that is produced on your farm. This will be imperative to making an informed decision of what your options may be in regard to manure management.

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Michigan State University Extension| A supplement to 4-H Equine Welfare Assessment, this document provides sample scenarios that allow teams or individuals to test their equine welfare knowledge, or prepare for an equine welfare judging competition.

Richard Leep, , David Stroud, and Karen White, Michigan State University | Horses are used for entertainment, sporting events and companionship, therapy for people with disabilities, and even racing. Whatever their purpose, horses need good pastures that are free of weeds and hazards. This is discussed below.